Anakena Beach

Stunning Anakena is our only big sandy beach, and is also of high historic value. This is where our first king Hotu Matu'a arrived a thousand years ago when colonizing the island. Palmtrees and beautifully carved ancient moai statues decorate the landscape. The statues of the main monument, Ahu Nau-Nau, were buried in the sand for centuries, and were recently dug up when restored a few decades ago, so they are among the most well-preseved statues of the island. We go here mainly for historic and photographic purposes, but if you want to have a quick swim, please feel free to.

Orongo

Orongo is a ceremonial village perched dramatically on the edge of the Rano Kau crater. It was the center of the unique Birdman cult, where a dangerous annual competition determined leadership on the island. Dozens of restored stone houses and intricate petroglyphs reveal the spiritual and political importance of the site. From within Orongo, we’ll have a stunning view of the volcanic crater of Rano Kau — by far the largest on Easter Island. Its freshwater lake was once an essential source of drinking water for the island’s ancient inhabitants.